When Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Paris for a dinner at the Elysee Palace, French President Emmanuel Macron greeted him with a warm hug. The two leaders exchanged friendly remarks before they began their discussions.
Dinner with Key Dignitaries
The dinner, hosted by Macron, featured several important dignitaries. Notably, US Vice President JD Vance attended. According to the Prime Minister’s Office, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with French President Emmanuel Macron and US Vice President JD Vance.” Additionally, other notable guests included Google CEO Sundar Pichai, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
PM @narendramodi interacts with President @EmmanuelMacron and USA @VP @JDVance in Paris. pic.twitter.com/FFBLCRvRoM
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 10, 2025
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
PM Modi’s visit aims to further strengthen the relationship between India and France. During his time in Paris, he will discuss strategic cooperation, technology, and artificial intelligence (AI) with President Macron. A key highlight will be the AI Action Summit, which PM Modi will co-chair with Macron. The summit will bring together global leaders and tech executives to explore how AI can be used for the public good.
New Consulate in Marseille
Furthermore, PM Modi and President Macron will open India’s first consulate in Marseille, marking an important step in enhancing diplomatic ties between the two countries.
Warm Reception in France
PM Modi received a special welcome upon his arrival in Paris. Minister of the Armed Forces Sebastien Lecornu greeted him at the airport. The Ministry of External Affairs shared the update on X, stating, “PM Narendra Modi arrived in Paris to a special welcome. Warmly received by Minister of the Armed Forces Sebastien Lecornu of France at the airport.”
PM @narendramodi arrived in Paris to a special welcome.
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) February 10, 2025
Warmly received by Minister of the Armed Forces @SebLecornu of France at the airport. pic.twitter.com/EbSRYVsWg5
India-France Strategic Partnership
This visit is also aligned with efforts to deepen the India-France strategic partnership. In addition, PM Modi will review progress on the Horizon 2047 Roadmap, which focuses on long-term cooperation in key sectors.
Key Visits in France
During his visit, PM Modi will travel with Macron to Marseille. They will visit the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), an important project in nuclear fusion research. Moreover, PM Modi will pay his respects at the Mazargues War Cemetery, honoring Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the World Wars.
Next Stop: The United States
After his engagements in France, PM Modi will travel to the United States at the invitation of US President Donald Trump. This visit will aim to further strengthen India’s ties with the US, focusing on collaboration in technology, defense, and economic growth.